Discovery in the Morgue

Social disruption in America in the late 1960s and early 1970s was harsh. Every citizen of Memphis, Tn, felt the impact of the assassination of Martin Luther King, political unrest, America's failure in Vietnam, civil disobedience, organized crime, and the drug culture. Memphis's citizens believed segregation was a preferred social structure, with African Americans remaining subservient. The author reveals the struggles of young Hank Henderson. Hank is a newly minted health professional who realizes the disparities created by racial segregation and long-term mistrust and oppression of African Americans. Hank's thoughts conflict, and he becomes progressively reckless. His journey evolves with a background of personal and cultural experiences that are harsh teachings. Hank's reaction to social disparities is inflaming, showing how the healthcare industry functions as a dichotomy of service to Whites versus African Americans. Healthcare was not offered to African Americans as a right but as a privilege. Realizing how contrary this is to his upbringing, Hank risks his safety and professional career to make a difference. He joins forces with a friend to solve a mystery involving members of a drug ring. As they come closer to revealing the ring's actions, Hank's restlessness and curiosity get him over his head in trouble. He faces not only years in prison but is now a hunted man. His naïve decisions and what he now knows have resulted in a troublesome situation.

Social disruption was a harsh reality in America in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Every citizen in Memphis, Tennessee, felt the impact of the assassination of Martin Luther King, national political unrest, America's failure in the Vietnam War, civil disobedience, and the emerging horror of organized crime and the drug culture. Memphis's citizens largely believed segregation was a preferred social structure, with African Americans remaining subservient. In this blend of historical fiction, memoir, and social reflection, the author reveals the struggles of young Hank Henderson. Hank is a newly minted health professional who realizes the disparities created by racial segregation and long-term mistrust and oppression of African Americans. Hank's thoughts conflict, and he becomes progressively reckless. Hank's journey evolves with a background of personal and cultural experiences that are harsh teachings. Hank's reaction to social disparities is inflaming, showing how the healthcare industry functions as a dichotomy of service to Whites versus African Americans. Healthcare was not offered to African Americans as a right but as a privilege. Realizing how contrary this is to his upbringing, Hank risks his safety and professional career to make a difference. He joins forces with a friend to solve a mystery involving members of a drug ring. As they come closer to revealing the ring's actions, Hank's restlessness and curiosity get him over his head in trouble. He faces not only years in prison but is now a hunted man. His naïve decisions and what he now knows have resulted in a troublesome situation.

Author Bio An accomplished scientific author, experienced university professor, and hospital pharmacist for over four decades, Phil Johnston provides real-life experience and imagination to engage the reader in a journey of self-discovery, social education, and mystery. In his career, he has been amid social change and healthcare innovation. His peers have recognized him for his leadership in the pharmacy profession, his scientific inquiry, and as an advocate for the underserved and marginalized. Phil is retired and lives in Tennessee with his wife and extended family.